2027 Capital City River Run
Flat, fast half along the Lansing River Trail, now in its 33rd year.
Expected Race Date
~Sep 2027
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Lansing, MI
Quick facts
- Date
- around September 2027 (expected)
- Location
- Lansing, Michigan
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Capital City River Run, first run in 1993, celebrates its 33rd anniversary in 2026 with a flat, fast point-to-point half-marathon through Lansing. Starting on Michigan Avenue, the course winds through downtown, passes through Michigan State University's campus, and follows the Lansing River Trail before finishing at Adado Park. The USATF-certified course is slightly net downhill, a proven PR magnet that draws about 700 runners each year, with a loyal one-third returning annually.
The race benefits Impression 5 Science Center, and the post-race celebration includes a pizza party and free museum entry—a fitting finish for a race that blends community support with a runner-friendly vibe. The half-marathon and 5K start together at 8:00 AM, with a separate kids' mile on Saturday. All participants receive a sweatshirt and a finisher medal, adding to the sense of accomplishment.
Race-provided description
2026 marks the 33rd anniversary of the Capital City River Run. The Capital City River Run makes a real impact within the community, benefiting Impression 5 Science Center and its mission to provide children and families access to science exploration through hands-on exhibits and participatory programming. Annual races include a Half Marathon, 5K Walk/Run, and the Sohn’s Kid’s Race. All half marathon and 5K race participants receive a sweatshirt and finishers medal. The race will be chip timed by the Michigan Running Foundation and you can check your results during the race and on the web at Playmakers.com. The kids races will take place on Saturday, September 19 at 11AM at Impression 5 Science Center. The one mile race will take place on the Lansing River Trail. All participants will be invited to spend the day at the Science Museum and enjoy a pizza party after the event. Participants of the event will get a goodie bag and a finishers medal. The half marathon, and 5K races will start on Michigan Ave in front…
Logistics
Race Day
around September 2027 (expected)
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
Impression 5 Science Center 200 Museum Drive, Lansing, MI, 48912
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout7719 years running
~674 finishers a year
growing or steady
34% returning runners
USATF certified · 4 timing sources · 3 photos
runners from 1 state
winner 1:08:52
typical high 78°F
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 Capital City River Run?
The 2027 Capital City River Run hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around September 2027 (expected).
Where does the 2027 Capital City River Run take place?
It takes place in Lansing, Michigan.
What distances does the 2027 Capital City River Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2027 Capital City River Run course flat and good for a PR?
The 2027 Capital City River Run is a ultra-flat, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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